Stephen Jones Is Having Way Too Much Fun Running 2:11

Stephen Jones joins Lindsey and Peter after a breakout 2:11 performance at the Marathon Project secured his Olympic Trials qualifier and opened the door to an opportunity he’s dreamed about: racing the professional field at the New York City Marathon.

Stephen talks about why he still prioritizes fun over chasing splits, how he balances 100-mile weeks with a full-time job in Boulder, and why he believes there’s more in the tank after his 2:11 breakthrough. He also shares how The Track Club helped bring him back to competitive running after burnout, the story behind his unforgettable finish at Bolder Boulder, and what support from Bandit has meant as an unsponsored athlete getting closer to the professional level.

They also get into his long-distance relationship with fellow Trials qualifier and medical student Maddie Alm, his approach to New York’s notoriously difficult course, “delusional confidence,” and why he’s trying not to look too far ahead to March 2028.

Stephen’s biggest reminder heading into New York? Don’t forget to smile.